Top 15 Places To Live In Leeds
Leeds is fast becoming one of the most significant economic powerhouses in the UK. With the endless opportunities and countless showstopping events that take place here each year, it's easy to understand why more and more people are looking to Leeds to call home.
We've been Estate Agents in Leeds for over 20 years, and in that time, we've seen our wonderful city continue to grow, with development taking place in many of the surrounding suburbs. For those who're new to Leeds and are wondering where you should set up your home, we've put together a handy list of 15 of the best places to live in Leeds.
1. Horsforth
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £338,290
Horsforth ranks highly on any list when referring to the best places to live in Leeds and quite rightly so! Between Horsforth Town Street and New Road Side, there are a host of bars, restaurants, supermarkets and a range of both independent and chain businesses.
Horsforth Hall Park is a great addition to the community with a playground, bandstand, cricket pitch and bowling green, whilst the range of local sports clubs gives a real sense of community in the area. Horsforth efficient transport links including buses, trains and the nearby airport are what help keep Horsforth at the top!
The range of places on offer makes Horsforth ideal for families and young professionals alike. With bars, restaurants and walks in abundance there is something for all ages in Horsforth.
2. Chapel Allerton
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) £306,668
Chapel Allerton creates its own buzz despite being just a short drive from Leeds city centre. With a range of bars, restaurants and events, Chapel Allerton has become the top spot for young professionals and families. Labelled the ‘Notting Hill of the North’ regular live music events, art and monthly markets push Chapel Allerton to the top of any location guide list!
This area of Leeds is well known for its range of independent shops, bars and pubs. These small local businesses are what give Chapel Allerton its community feel and what makes Chapel Allerton, for many, one of the best areas to live in Leeds.
3. Bramhope
Average House Price (Mar, 2023)- £576,688
Despite being a little further afield, 9 miles north of the city centre, Bramhope is still one of the most sought-after locations in Leeds. Recognised as one of the pricier postcodes in Leeds, Bramhope has a population of just over 3500.
With Golden Acre Park on its doorstep and the local Memorial Hall home to tennis courts, a Bowling Green and badminton courts, there is plenty to do in and around Bramhope. The Fox and the Hound pub dating back to 1728 has earned its stripes as the locals' pub of choice!
Bramhope Primary School provides Bramhope residents with outstanding school options for their children. This paired with the abundance of green space makes this area popular with young families in Leeds.
4. Roundhay
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £322,888
Famous for its 700-acre park which attracts locals, visitors and events throughout the year, the suburb of Roundhay certainly has a lot to offer. Roundhay benefits from a host of independent amenities and if you can't find what you're after the city centre is just a 5-minute drive away!
Street Lane is a popular spot for locals who want to avoid the city centre but want to treat themselves to some retail therapy. Also on Street Lane is a range of bars and restaurants fit for any occasion! For those days when you fancy a trip into the City Centre, transport links are second to none with a bus as often as every 10 minutes.
5. Headingley
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £268,632
Headingley is not just catered to the student market as some onlookers may assume. The area's main road, Otley Road is filled with some of the best cafes, pubs and restaurants in Leeds, making this an aspect of Headingley which competes even with the City Centre.
But this is not all Headingley has to offer, take a step back from the main road to find the leafy residential streets which are home to some of the loveliest properties in Leeds. Amongst these houses is Beckett Park, a great expanse to take a stroll or chill out on a warm summer's day.
It's this mix of quiet streets and a lively centre which makes Headingley an area in which you have the opportunity to set your own pace. This makes the area great for Young Professionals, Young Couples and Families alike.
6. Otley
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £287,794
With 17 pubs in Otley alone - need we say more? The historic market town of Otley is a local hot spot. You won’t be short of things to do or see in Otley; with farmers markets still thriving and the Dales on your doorstep, its sense of community is what makes Otley so prevalent. However don’t be fooled by Otley's traditional tendencies, the town is also home to many trendy new bars and cafés adding to the town’s attraction!
7. Meanwood
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £265,528
You may have heard of the ‘up and coming’ area of Meanwood over recent years - with all the talk, Meanwood has certainly lived up to its expectations. With its choice of local primary schools and easy access to the city, Meanwood has quite rightly become a popular spot for young professionals and families, earning its spot on the top list.
Meanwood not only has some of the most quirky independent bars in Leeds, but also some of the best walking trails within the city. The area provides the setting to a large section of the Meanwood Valley Trail. Whether taking on the whole trail or just exploring parts of the Hollies or Meanwood Park, there's plenty to explore within Meanwood.
8. Alwoodley
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £401,459
Bordering Roundhay and Moortown is the suburban area of Alwoodley. Alwoodley could be described as a peaceful neighbourhood with greenery stealing most of the landscape. This makes Alwoodley a great area for families, with many parents opting for these peaceful surroundings when looking to raise their young families. In addition, the well-regarded Leeds Grammar School provides an exceptional schooling option for Children of all ages, making Alwoodley one of the best areas in Leeds for young families.
The quality of properties in Alwoodley are reflected by the high average house price of this area, with many stunning houses and gardens within the area. This quality as well as it's rural surroundings is why many families see themselves in Alwoodley for many years to come upon moving here.
9. Farsley
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £242,719
The small town of Farsley in Pudsey situated 6 miles from Leeds city centre and 4 miles from Bradford, its a prime spot for commuters! Over recent years, Farsley has become increasingly popular with young professionals, due to its affordable house prices and a good rental market.
Farsley Townstreet has an array of pubs and restaurants, whilst nearby Pudsey has larger supermarkets including Asda and Marks and Spencer’s. Farsley also has multiple gyms, beauty salons and other independent businesses guaranteeing its spot on the top locations list.
10. Calverley
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £317,262
Calverley might be small but it has a lot to offer in terms of houses, location and desirability. Situated just outside of Horsforth, Calverley's surroundings are nothing short of beautiful with acres of greenery to enjoy.
The rural aspects of Calverley mean you can enjoy a walk through the fields or woodlands which occupy the area, followed by a stop at one of Calverley's much-loved local pubs. Calverley has a village feel yet its location ensures all amenities are within close proximity. Calverley is also home to a primary school and is just a short distance from neighbouring high schools!
11. Moortown
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £332,722
North of the city you’ll find Moortown. In the heart of the area, you'll find Moortown Corner. This section of Moortown offers a convenient array of banks, cafes and supermarkets including the old favourite Mark and Spencers.
With an increasing number of companies choosing to step away from the city centre and set up on the outskirts, in areas such as Moortown, it has become a widely held area with professionals.
12. Pudsey
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £222,409
Situated within an equal distance of both Leeds and Bradford, Pudsey is an old market town with a lot to offer. Pudsey is home to 3 high schools and many sought-after primary schools making it a hit with families.
The vast amount of parks and recreational areas add to Pudsey's appeal! There is a real sense of community in Pudsey with public events held regularly- we hear the Pudsey carnival is a must!
13. Guiseley
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) -£290,879
Conveniently located around the A65, Guiseley has easy connections to Leeds, Bradford and the Dales. With Nunroyd Park on its doorstep, Guiseley is a popular destination for those who enjoy the outdoors.
With a range of great schools in the area, it’s easy to see why families are drawn to Guiseley. Its long list of local amenities adds to its favourable qualities; whilst Guiseley AFC’s large local following highlights the sense of community in the area.
14. Adel
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £342,972
Adel is the perfect location to wind down outside of the city. Only four miles north of Leeds city centre the residential area of Adel can feel some distance from the busy city centre. With lovely rural surroundings, this area is perfect for families. The local nature reserve of Golden Acre is a must-visit with trails and wildlife for the whole family to explore. There is more to Adel than its rural surroundings. On Otley Road, you can find a host of restaurants. These make for an excellent night out with family or friends, all from the convenience of your local surroundings.
15. Oakwood
Average House Price (Mar, 2023) - £279,596
Adjacent to Roundhay Park, the iconic Oakwood clock is the central spot in Oakwood’s landscape. Situated between Roundhay and Harehills, house prices are significantly cheaper than its neighbour Roundhay.
Oakwood is a great location for Young Professionals with a selection of local bars, restaurants and supermarkets on your doorstep. The area also benefits from easy access to Leeds city centre with close proximity and great transport links into the centre.
Whether you're looking to make Leeds your new home, or just looking to relocate within the city, there are plenty of fantastic local suburbs, towns and villages to choose from. If you want any more information on any of the areas we cover here at Manning Stainton, take a look at our local area guides, covering everything from things to do to local schools. Alternatively contact your local branch, who will be happy to give you any information you need on our much-loved local regions.
* Average house prices are calculated based on Rightmove March 2023 data and are subject to change*